—attention to the tiniest details of your teeth, of course, but so much else, too—attention to color, to the slightest variations in shade, attention to symmetry, to the tug or fall of your lips, attention to changes even when your visits are spaced months or years apart. Attention to your relaxed pose or your tightened fist. Attention to what language you use, or how your mouth creates speech, attention to a lisp or impediment, to a tied tongue or new gap or little chip. Attention to the signs of your habits, like flossing or nail-biting. Attention to your goals and dreams. Attention to how you smile—do you cover your mouth? Do you lean forward when you laugh? Do your eyes smile too? Or have the lips been trained to stay closed?

A good dentist has the ability to observe closely. A great dentist also has the deep inclination to care. Attention is an act of love. It is deeply felt by the object of its gaze, and it is remarkably comforting. This is what excited me about dentistry years ago. It continues to inspire me today. That I am drawn to the beauty of the human face (particularly its teeth) just feels like a lucky bonus.

I opened Demibone as an ode to attention. Every detail of the practice was imagined, considered, and labored over—from the unique architectural design to the top brands of our clinical supplies. I couldn’t be prouder of the result. I hope you’ll stop by and visit us soon, because we really can’t wait to meet you—and your teeth!